Michellar’s ‘Dreaming’: A Retro-Infused Anthem for the Modern Dreamer
- GRAHAM
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Michellar’s new single, Dreaming, released on March 28, 2025, arrives like a breath of fresh air, rich with nostalgic echoes and a touch of fiery, contemporary defiance. Born in San Francisco, Michellar, aka Michelle Bond, has been on a sonic journey through psychedelia, weaving retro influences with modern sensibilities. Her newest track draws on the signature sounds of the 1960s, infused with a sharp, personal narrative that gives Dreaming its bite. The result is a track that’s as much about musical exploration as a cathartic outpouring of frustration and reflection on the human experience.
The song’s opening riff immediately grabs attention with its vintage, cinematic guitar lines that transport listeners into a world that could easily belong to a 60s James Bond film. That intoxicating riff, reminiscent of classic rock, is the heart of Dreaming, setting the mood with an irresistible energy. The mix of the hypnotic rhythm and Michelle’s impassioned vocals creates a soundscape that’s ethereal and grounded. It’s a captivating journey—a perfect blend of psychedelic retro vibes with a modern-day edge. The track’s influences are clear, drawing inspiration from iconic figures like Grace Slick and other legendary artists of the psychedelic era, but Michellar’s execution brings something uniquely personal to the table.
One of the striking features of Dreaming is its backstory. Michelle Bond, who penned the lyrics and the music, speaks candidly about her journey through the song. The track emerges from the emotional tension of being labeled a “dreamer” while having her hopes and aspirations disregarded by people and circumstances. There’s a fiery bitterness woven into the lyrics as Michellar reflects on the paths taken due to survival, rather than the pursuit of her true dreams. The result is a piece of art that’s as emotionally charged as it is sonically captivating. It’s a song for anyone who’s ever had their dreams dismissed and is determined to take control of their fate.
The recording of Dreaming took place in multiple locations, adding a layer of artistic richness to the project. The vocals were captured in San Francisco at the Women’s Audio Mission Recording studio, a facility known for its commitment to empowering women in music. Meanwhile, Toby Wilson, hailing from the UK, took the reins for the instrumental production. His deft touch with the instrumentation complements Michellar’s evocative vocals, weaving together a sound that feels expansive and intimate. The track was then mastered in the UK, where its final form took shape. The result is a polished yet raw track that captures the spirit of both its retro influences and modern ethos.
What makes Dreaming so special is its ability to fuse past and present effortlessly. While the track resonates with fans of the 60s psychedelic movement, its themes are timeless and relevant to today’s listeners. It’s a universal story of self-doubt, unfulfilled dreams, and the bitter pursuit of survival, yet it also carries a spark of defiance, an insistence on the need to dream. Michellar has created a single that captures a retro vibe and imbues it with a modern, emotional depth that speaks to those fighting for their dreams in the world today. With Dreaming, Michellar has crafted a sonic journey and a cathartic anthem for anyone who has ever been told their dreams aren’t worth chasing.
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